The deadline to submit comments on the request by Impossible Metals for a lease to conduct deep-sea exploration and extraction of minerals in waters near American has ben extended.
The deadline was originally set for July 16; however, the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) announced Tuesday that the comment period has been extended to August 15.
During the local town hall meeting on July 2 regarding the deep-sea mining lease request, ASG officials revealed that the Governor had requested an extension. It was reported at the time that verbal approval had been given, but the extension had to go through the Federal Register process.
BOEM said the 30-day extension is in response to a request from the Governor of American Samoa.
BOEM’s Pacific Regional Director, Doug Boren, said, “As we extend the comment period, we emphasize our commitment to an open process that ensures the voices of the people of American Samoa are heard and respected.” He added, “We look forward to our continued engagement with the government of American Samoa.
BOEM’s Request for Information is published in the Federal Register and can be found at regulations.gov and search under BOEM-2025-0035.
As of Tuesday, there were over 21,500 comments posted.
